Winter travel packing list

We’ll be in the UK, Ireland, Germany, France and Spain (and maybe a few other places if we can squeeze them in) from November to February, which apparently ranges from cold to colder. Oh, and rainy. Heat and even humidity I can handle well enough, but my wardrobe is more than a little ill-equipped to handle the kind of cold, wet, windy weather that is a rarity here in Perth. To make matters worse I’m actually very sensitive to the cold – once it drops below 20 degrees Celsius I’m putting on a cardigan and complaining about how ‘freezing’ it is (oh yes, I’m one of those people). I’m still stubbornly clinging to my ideal of travelling with carry-on luggage only, so all this warm clothing has to add up to less than 7kg and fit into a little suitcase. Possible? I think so.

1 pair of sensible walking shoes

1 pair of boots

1 pair of thongs (not for outside obviously!)

2 pairs of pants

1 jacket

5 tops (mostly 100% wool)

4 cardigans/jumpers/fleece mid-layers

2 dresses

1 necklace

1 pair of earrings

1 belt

1 pair of sunnies

1 warm scarf

1 wide-brimmed hat

1 beanie

1 travel wallet/clutch

1 everyday bag

…and yep, that should leave me enough space for the inevitable shopping I’ll be doing over there!

This is a pretty standard winter palette for me, and all the neutral blacks and greys will make it easy to work any new pieces that I purchase into my little capsule wardrobe (and my regular wardrobe when I return). I’m a big fan of wool for its warmth-to-bulk ratio, quick drying properties and the fact that knits don’t need ironing, so if there’s one word that sums up my winter packing strategy it’s merino. Actually it would be layers. Of merino. In addition to the above I’m taking a couple of merino thermal singlets, a pair of merino tights, wool socks and some stockings.

What do you think? Will I be toasty warm in my woolens in Europe, or will I have to head straight to the shops to bulk up my layers when I get there?

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7 notes

Well, I’m swedish but I’ve been in France a lot over the winter. And uhmm, depending on how much time you will be spending outside I’d say you need a winter-jacket and some mittens. Temperature easily drop below zero and it will be cold. But maybe you’re better off picking up something once you’re in europe?

Hey I packed very very similar to you and still needed a winter jacket cos I didn’t bring one and ended up buying one over there along with scarf and a cute beanie/beret.. but this is good basics.. And Like you said you be shopping :D .

As soon as the winter is coming most of the families must be planning to go on family holidays. But before going on a holiday first think have you packed all your winter clothes? I mean it is very necessary if you are going at some hill-station or some cold place then you should have all the necessary warm clothes with you. All the above clothes are really essential for that.

Meaghan – these are mostly just the closest I could find, on Polyvore etc – not the actual exact items. Most of my things are from standard chains like Witchery, Country Road, Portmans, as well as places like Myer, Target, Mountain Designs and Scottevest. Generally I try not to buy things specifically for travel, so I’ve been acquiring more winter gear over here as we need it. I hope that helps!